National Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated in the United States between September 15 to October 15. During this month, the contributions made and the important presence of Hispanic and Latino Americans to the United States are celebrated! This period also recognizes the history, culture, and heritage of American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, the Caribbean, and South America.

Hispanic Heritage Month officially began in 1988 on the 15th of September, which is the anniversary of independence of five Latin American countries: El Salvador, Guatemala, Nicaragua Costa Rica, and Honduras. Additionally, Mexico and Chile celebrate their independence on both September 16 and September 18.

Almost a fifth of the United States population is Hispanic, meaning that around 57 million people identify as Hispanic! California has the largest Hispanic population than any other state of 15.3 million people. Therefore, there are more celebrations and events in California; however, people all across the US honor Hispanic culture and their heritage by putting on different events and celebrations.

Many parties and events have taken place this year all across Los Angeles in honor of Hispanic Heritage month. For example, many museums have hosted exhibitions that display Latin American art and photographs. In addition, there have been numerous music festivals that featured artists of Hispanic origin, such as Eva Ybarra and Ricardo Parra.

As we are coming to the end of Hispanic Heritage Month, it is important to acknowledge the importance of the month, which is to celebrate the culture, lineage, and ancestors who were from Latin America, Spain, or any other Hispanic origin!

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Courtesy of Gabriela Holian ‘20, Staff Writer